Learn to Play Riptide by Vance Joy on Ukulele
Here’s a free PDF download: Click here to grab a printable PDF containing the strumming patterns, chord diagrams, and lyrics to follow along with this lesson.
“Riptide” by Vance Joy has become a rite of passage for many beginner ukulele players—and for good reason. It’s catchy, repetitive enough to memorize quickly, and it only uses a few basic chords. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to get started: the chords, three strumming pattern options, and even how to play that distinctive little solo section. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to add some flair to your playing, this tutorial has you covered.
Strumming Patterns for Riptide
Let’s start with three strumming pattern options—from easiest to most advanced. You can choose the one that best matches your current skill level or the sound you like most.
1. Basic Down Strums (Great for Beginners)
This is the easiest way to strum through Riptide. Simply play four downstrums for each of the first two chords, and then hold the C chord a bit longer with eight downstrums. It keeps things simple and helps you focus on chord transitions.
2. Down-Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up
This pattern adds a bit more rhythm and texture. The count goes:
1, 2, 3-and-4-and
Strum down on the numbers and alternate with upstrums on the “and” beats. It flows nicely with the feel of the song and helps you start building strumming speed and coordination.
Tip: Use your nail for the downstrums and the skin of your finger for the upstrums. It gives a softer, more dynamic sound.
3. Continuous Movement Strumming (Like the Original Recording)
For a strumming pattern that closely matches the original song, your strumming hand needs to keep moving—even if you’re not hitting the strings on every motion. This might feel awkward at first, especially if you’re miming part of the movement, but it’s essential for keeping time and developing a natural rhythm.
Imagine flicking water off your fingers with each motion—this helps you maintain consistent timing and avoid getting “stuck” in the rhythm.
Ukulele Chords You’ll Need
We’re playing this version of Riptide in the key of C, which makes it a bit easier on beginner fingers. Here are the main chords used throughout the song:
- A Minor (Am): 2-0-0-0
- G Major (G): 0-2-3-2
- C Major (C): 0-0-0-3
Optional Solo Section (Clever Break from the Repetition)
After the second chorus, the original recording features a short solo section. You don’t have to play it, but it’s a fun way to spice things up and break the repetition.
This short melody starts on the C string, where you:
- Play the second fret
- Hammer on to the fourth fret
- Then move to the E string, third fret.
- Play this phrase four times to complete the solo.
It fits perfectly with the line “I just wanna, I just wanna know…” before moving into the bridge.
Bridge Chords: Add a New Flavor
The bridge introduces a new chord to keep things interesting: F Major 7. Don’t worry—it sounds fancy, but it’s not too hard to play. If you’d prefer, you can always stick with a regular F chord instead.
Here’s how the chords go in the bridge:
- Am → “I just wanna, I just wanna…”
- G → “know…”
- C → “If you’re gonna, if you’re gonna stay…”
- F or Fmaj7 → your choice
Fmaj7 (variation used in the video):
- Fret 5 on the G string (index)
- Fret 5 on the C string (pinky)
- Let the E and A strings ring open
This chord has a dreamy, shimmering sound—one of the instructor’s personal favorites!
Pre-Chorus & Final Chorus
When you reach the pre-chorus, things simplify again. Just strum each chord once—nice and slow—and then launch into the final chorus.
The last part of the song involves repeating the chorus section three times to bring it home.
Riptide Ukulele Playthrough
Once you’re familiar with the chords and strumming patterns, try playing through the full song from start to finish. This helps you put all the pieces together and get used to playing in time with the rhythm.
Final Thoughts
We hope this Riptide ukulele tutorial helps you feel more confident and excited about playing one of the most popular beginner songs out there. Whether you went with the basic strumming or gave the solo a try, the most important thing is to have fun and keep practicing.
If there are other songs or techniques you’d like us to cover in future lessons, feel free to leave a comment.
Happy strumming!
John Allnutt
Writer & Ukulele TeacherJohn has been teaching music since 2008 and resides in Richmond, Kentucky with his wife Laura and dog Sam. In his spare time he enjoys growing and cooking food, roasting coffee, playing board games, and spreading joy through playing and teaching music.
